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The Spinal Cord

The Spinal Cord

The spinal cord is the body’s major nerve tract of the central nervous system, communicating afferent sensory information from the periphery to the brain and efferent motor information from the brain to the body. The human spinal cord extends from the hole at the base of the skull, or foramen magnum, to the level of the first or second lumbar vertebra.

Spinal Cord: Cross-sectional Anatomy

Spinal Cord: Cross-sectional Anatomy

The cross-sectional anatomy of the spinal cord offers a detailed view of its complex structure and function within the central nervous system. At the core of the spinal cord lies the gray matter, characterized by its butterfly or "H"-shaped appearance in cross-section. This central region is enveloped by white matter, with the overall structure divided into symmetrical halves by the dorsal median sulcus and the ventral median fissure.
Gray Matter and its Components
Central to the gray matter is...

Spinal Cord: Information Processing

Spinal Cord: Information Processing

The spinal cord is an integral hub for motor and sensory information that enables the brain to communicate with the peripheral nervous system (PNS). This communication consists of relaying sensory data and transmission of motor commands.
Sensory Information Processing
Sensory information processing begins at the sensory receptors located in the skin and other tissues, which detect somatic sensory stimuli such as touch, temperature, or pain. These receptors function as catalysts, initiating...

Spinal Cord

Spinal Cord

The spinal cord, a critical component of the central nervous system, extends from the base of the brainstem to the lumbar region of the vertebral column. It is essential for maintaining physical stability and facilitating communication between the brain and peripheral parts of the body.

Spinal Cord: Gross Anatomy

Spinal Cord: Gross Anatomy

The spinal cord resides within the protective confines of the vertebral column. It is the main pathway for information traveling between the brain and the body. It plays a fundamental role in nearly all bodily functions, from simple reflexes to complex motor movements. The spinal cord begins at the medulla oblongata at the base of the brainstem and extends downward, terminating at the conus medullaris near the first and second lumbar vertebrae. The spinal cord's length in adults is...

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Related Experiment Video

Updated: Sep 13, 2025

Photothrombosis-induced Focal Ischemia as a Model of Spinal Cord Injury in Mice

Photothrombosis-induced Focal Ischemia as a Model of Spinal Cord Injury in Mice

Published on: July 16, 2015

Spinal cord ischemia: The "snake bite sign".

Nikolaos-Achilleas Arkoudis^1,2, Anastasia Karachaliou¹, George Triantafyllou³

¹Department of Radiology 2, General University Hospital "Attikon", National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Chaidari 12462, Attikí, Greece.

World Journal of Radiology

|August 1, 2025

Summary

Radiologists propose renaming the "owl's eyes" sign in spinal cord ischemia to the "snake bite sign." This new term better reflects the pathophysiology and aids in diagnostic recall for anterior horn T2-hyperintensities.

Keywords:

Bite Cord Eyes Ischemia Neuroimaging Neuroradiology Owl Radiology Snake Spinal

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Last Updated: Sep 13, 2025

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Area of Science:

Radiology
Neurology
Pathophysiology

Background:

Descriptive radiological signs enhance pattern recognition and diagnostic speed.
The "owl's eyes" or "snake eyes" sign, characterized by paired anterior horn T2-hyperintensities, is a recognized finding in spinal cord ischemia.

Discussion:

The "owl's eyes" sign lacks pathophysiologic context.
Proposing the "snake bite sign" as a replacement, evoking two fang-like dots and mirroring neurological deficits seen in spinal artery infarction and myelopathies.
This new metaphor connects the visual finding to potential clinical consequences, improving understanding.

Key Insights:

The "snake bite sign" metaphorically links the visual pattern to the pathophysiology of spinal cord ischemia.
This clinically driven terminology facilitates teaching and diagnostic recall.
The proposed name enhances interdisciplinary communication regarding spinal cord lesions.

Outlook:

Wider adoption of the "snake bite sign" could standardize terminology in neuroradiology.
Further research may explore the clinical utility of this new descriptive sign in various myelopathies.
Enhanced understanding through improved terminology may lead to earlier and more accurate diagnoses of spinal cord ischemia.